For millions of people throughout the country, air conditioning season is already in full swing.  And, for those living in the cooler climates, it will soon be arriving.  That means that systems that may not have been used for months are now being turned on.  Clogged filters, inadequately sized systems, or improperly maintained equipment can lead to poor air quality in the home.  That can lead to (or amplify) the symptoms commonly associated with seasonal allergies.  While sufferers may blame the blooming trees and plants outside their homes, it could, in fact, be a dirty HVAC system to blame for the stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and dry cough.

There are multiple reasons why you should consider having your air conditioning inspected if you are suddenly suffering with allergies.

1. Dirty filters can allow allergens to enter the air ducts. That means that pollen, dander, dust mites, and more can be fed directly into the air that you breathe.
2. If the HVAC system is not properly sized for the space, it will fail to maintain the proper temperature and humidity. That can lead to mold growth in your home, and many people are very allergic to mold spores.
3. Systems that aren’t regularly inspected or properly maintained may not operate as intended. That can lead to both of the prior two problems.  It can also lead to dirty ducts and an inability to maintain the desired temperature in the space.  All of this can make you feel worse when allergy season strikes.

There are temperature and humidity sensors that can be installed to work with existing systems, which can ensure that your system is able to maintain both to the desired set points.  These can also communicate with internal controls to make automatic adjustments as necessary.  Additionally, filters should be regularly cleaned or replaced.  As a final note, never run the air conditioning when windows or doors are open.  This can lead to increased humidity and a greater likelihood of mold growth.